His mother kept her so called promise, locking him away in his office to do all the documents. He sighed roughly, running a hand through his hair as worn eyes turned to the clock. Twelve hours straight, excluding bathroom breaks. Yet there were stacks upon stacks of paper. He was tempted to just sign them off but, well, that wouldn't feel right. He rubbed his eyes, standing up and shifting towards the bathroom for a shower.
Too tired to put the effort to flick on the light it was undecided that a shower dim lighting would be best. He sluggishly stripped himself of his clothing, large yawns escaping him here and there as he did so. Finally opened the shower curtain, craving the spray of warm water.
"HOLY LORAX." He yelped, fumbling and falling onto the floor with a hard thud as he scrambled towards the door. Then he froze, looking at the boy who seemed to be just as terrified. The boy who didn't have his own name and the person who just scared the living shit out of him. How the hell did he even sneak into the bathroom?
"You…You scared the beans out of me, uh, me." he muttered as he grabbed the towel to cover his lower regain. He received no answer, just a blank stare. "Can you talk? Or even understand me?" he said, knitting his brow together as he pulled himself off the ground, careful to make sure he stayed covered.
"Oncie! Where are you?" he groaned. Mother.
"I'm about to get in the shower." he called back, knowing he'd get scorned for wasting time. But his eyes turned to the boy who seemed confused, scared even. "just a quick one." he added on before his mother answered. Why didn't he get rat out the other? At least, that's what Once-ler would be thinking if he were in the others spot.
"Oh, alright . Take your time." that was off, she must know the clone snuck off by now. How long had this thing been running loose? Probably only a short time now that he thought about it. He turned to the newer boy and shrugged before moving forwards, offering a hand to the other.
"If you want a shower you have to take off your clothes, " he joked softly. The other stared at him wearily. "I'm not going to hurt you- look, we're one of the same. I guess, kind of. Uh, so, lets get along. Okay?" he tried to encourage but was fumbling. This was weird for even him, but he felt like he should protect the boy who sat in front of him. Slowly the other's hand slipped into Once-ler's. As it happened a smug smile appeared on his face.
"Now, what should I call you?" he pondered out loud.
"Greed-ler."